“Political big bang hits Sarkozy”

A special press review that focuses on the scandal that has hit the French government. President Sarkozy is accused of receiving illegal donations in 2007, to finance his election campaign. The Elysée denies.

Today’s press showed strong headlines and strong editorials. La Tribune advises Nicolas Sarkozy to address the nation as quickly as possible, if he wants to avoid a “democratic crisis”. The French President is expected to give a televised speech on 13th July.

The left-wing newspaper Libération warns that the Government’s attempt to downplay the situation is “no longer enough”.

The satirical weekly Le Canard Enchainé, compares UMP members to firemen desperately trying to put out a blaze.

As for the right-wing daily Le Figaro, it seems to defend President Sarkozy.

Meanwhile, Aujourd’hui en France focuses on the legal aspect of the case. Libération also talks about a similar situation that occurred ten years ago, involving President Jacques Chirac.